DAR ES SALAAM: Tanzania has made headlines as the first country to host an international forum focused on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to combat climate change. The UNFCCC Technology Executive Committee AI for Climate Action Forum 2025 took place on Wednesday, bringing together over 200 experts from Africa and beyond.
The main goal? To speed up the development and use of AI solutions that help African countries tackle the effects of climate change. This event highlights Tanzania’s role as the chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), which represents 54 African nations in global climate talks.
Dr. Richard Muyungi, AGN Chair and Special Envoy to the President on Environment and Climate Change, expressed pride in Tanzania’s hosting rights. “This recognition is due to our commitment to sustainable development and clean energy,” he said.
Experts believe AI can provide crucial recommendations on improving weather forecasts and protecting the environment. Prof. Peter Msoffe, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Vice President’s Office, noted the unique challenges Africa faces. “We have limited digital infrastructure and access to quality climate data, but these hurdles present opportunities for innovation,” he said.
According to a recent report by the International Telecommunications Union, only about 28% of Africans have access to the internet. This highlights the urgency of building digital infrastructure to support AI initiatives. Prof. Msoffe stressed that AI must be developed with equity and transparency in mind, ensuring it benefits the people and the planet.
Tanzania’s efforts align with a global trend toward integrating technology in environmental solutions. Studies show that AI can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, optimize resource use, and improve disaster response, especially in vulnerable regions.
As the climate crisis escalates, forums like this one play a vital role in uniting nations to share knowledge and solutions. The upcoming COP30 meeting in Belém, Brazil, further emphasizes this commitment, where countries aim to align AI with climate goals, ensuring that technology serves humanity.
With these collaborative efforts, there’s hope that Africa can lead in innovative climate solutions through technology while addressing the challenges it faces head-on.
